APC launches RE Design for Recycle flexible packaging technology for frozen foods

USA – Flexible packaging company American Packaging Corporation (APC) has announced the commercial launch of a new RE Design for Recycle flexible packaging technology.

American Packaging Corporation (APC), a leading flexible packaging company, has unveiled its latest innovation: the commercial launch of a groundbreaking RE Design for Recycle flexible packaging technology.

This advancement targets the frozen food sector, particularly catering to products such as frozen fruits and vegetables and marks a significant addition to APC’s RE sustainable packaging portfolio, which encompasses Design for Compost, Circular Content, Renewable Content, and various Design for Recycle options.

In collaboration with produce processors, APC embarked on a mission to develop a recyclable package capable of replacing the existing non-recyclable, multi-material laminate.

The primary objective was to create a package that not only maintains production efficiency but also addresses the challenges posed by the sharp edges of packaged products.

The outcome of this collaborative effort is an all-polyethylene (PE) package engineered to meet stringent requirements.

The new package format features a pillow bag with a fin-seal design, facilitating production on both intermittent and continuous motion vertical form fill seal (VFFS) equipment at speeds of up to 90 packages per minute.

The laminate utilized in the packaging boasts an oriented print web, enhancing heat resistance, dimensional stability, and graphic clarity.

This print web, reverse-printed and adhesively laminated to a sealant film, offers superior opacity and lower temperature sealability while adhering to the Association of Plastic Recycler’s (APR) guidelines for PE films, ensuring recyclability.

Additionally, the packaging structure can be customized to meet the demands of applications requiring higher moisture and oxygen barrier properties, with the option for brand owners to incorporate a clear sealant for enhanced product visibility.

The oriented print web can be printed using flexographic or rotogravure printing methods and can feature patterned or full matte gloss over-lacquer, providing versatility in design. Engineered to withstand manufacturing, distribution, and handling, the packaging exemplifies APC’s commitment to sustainability and innovation.

Ray Graham, President of APC, emphasized the company’s dedication to advancing sustainable packaging solutions, stating, “Every flexible packaging technology we add to APC’s RE portfolio of sustainable packaging and launch in a commercial application is another step towards a more sustainable future for everyone.”

In parallel with this groundbreaking launch, APC has also achieved International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) Plus for five of its Centers of Excellence.

This certification allows APC to source and convert advanced recycled resins and films, contributing to the development of the circular economy by ensuring traceability of advanced recycled plastics along the entire supply chain in compliance with ISCC Plus standards.

This certification underscores APC’s commitment to sustainability and responsible resource utilization.

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